Severe hearing loss is a condition that significantly impacts a person's ability to hear and understand sounds. Individuals with severe hearing loss often struggle to hear sounds below 70 decibels, equivalent to the noise level in a busy restaurant or office.?
Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss in 2023
Struggling with hearing loss? Explore the best hearing aids for severe hearing loss available on the market today.
Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
This level of hearing loss can seriously impact one’s quality of life, making it difficult to engage in conversations, understand speech, and perceive many everyday sounds.
Hearing loss may be caused by aging, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, and hereditary conditions. Severe hearing loss, in particular, often results from prolonged exposure to loud noise or due to age-related changes in the inner ear. It can also be due to severe illnesses or conditions such as Meniere's or otosclerosis.
People with severe hearing loss often rely on hearing aids to improve their hearing capabilities . These hearing aids for severe hearing loss can significantly enhance their hearing and communication ability, thus improving their overall quality of life. In this article, we will review what is the best hearing aid for severe hearing loss.
Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
- Jabra Enhance Pro 10 - Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss Overall
- Audicus Omni - Best Affordable Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
- Oticon Real - Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
- Phonak Naida Paradise - Easiest to Use Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss?
- Widex Moment BTE 13 D - Best Tinnitus Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
- Starkey Genesis AI - Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss With Advanced Technology
1. Jabra Enhance Pro 10 - Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss Overall
Jabra is a reputable brand in the personal audio market, known for its high-quality headphones. It falls under the GN Audio group, a Danish company GN Store Nord subsidiary. GN Store Nord oversees two primary business units: GN Audio and GN Hearing, both world-renowned manufacturers of audio devices and hearing aids, respectively.?
The technology found in the Jabra Enhance Pro hearing aids is based on the ReSound ONE? hearing aid, the current flagship product of GN Hearing.
Pros
- Highly competitive pricing for high-end hearing aids
- Technology based upon ReSound hearing aid technology
- Unique microphone in-the-ear option with M&RIE
- Four hearing aids for severe hearing loss and eight color choices
- Rechargeable option and pricing includes a charger
- Wireless features with new hands-free functionality
- Tinnitus features
- Available smartphone app with a wide range of controls
- Remote care features via a smartphone app
Cons
- Only one model available with rechargeability
- No custom products
- Not intended for pediatric patients
- No tap feature for accepting/rejecting calls or starting/stopping streaming
- T-coil is available only on one product
- Push-button must be programmed for either volume, program, or streaming control, multiple functionalities are unavailable.
Why We Chose It
The Jabra Enhance Pro 10 is available in four different models with eight color options. All models are IP 68 rated, implying the hearing aid casing offers some dust and water protection for the internal electronics.?
The three models – Jabra Enhance Pro 10 RIE 13, Jabra Enhance Pro 10 Mini RIE, Jabra Enhance Pro 10 ITC, ITE, and Jabra Enhance Pro 10 CIC – offer a range of features to cater to different user needs. All four models are for mild to severe hearing loss, and almost all are for mild to profound hearing loss.
Advanced Technologies for Enhanced Listening
The Jabra Enhance Pro, offers many features to improve listening capabilities. These include directional microphones, impact noise reduction, wind noise reduction, feedback control, and synchronized switching of controls from ear to ear. Additionally, these online hearing aids for severe hearing loss introduce several groundbreaking technologies.
All Access Directionality
This technology allows the two microphones on each hearing aid (in a binaural fitting involving both ears) to calculate the best microphone response for each ear. In other words, the four microphones in a binaural fitting work together to estimate the best possible directional microphone response in noise for each hearing aid.
This multi-microphone system is designed to improve overall speech intelligibility in complex, noisy situations. This is done automatically and is intended to be seamless for the listener.
Microphone & Receiver-in-Ear (M &RIE)
"Microphone & Receiver-in-Ear" refers to the hearing aid utilizing two typical microphones on the casing of the hearing aid plus an additional microphone built into the receiver housing, which is placed in the ear.?
This feature is intended to take advantage of the ear's natural ability to collect and amplify sound, improving sound localization, minimizing noise from behind the listener, and reducing wind noise.
Ultra Focus
Ultra Focus is an additional noise reduction feature controlled by the wearer. The hearing aid or smartphone app button can activate a program change. This control gives the wearer more choice over the directional microphone response in very noisy situations when they want to hear the person directly in front of them.
Environmental Optimizer
This feature is the hearing aid's automatic adjustment system based on an environmental classification system. The Environmental Optimizer is designed to provide a comfortable listening experience regardless of the environment. It makes volume and noise reduction changes so the wearer doesn't have to adjust the hearing aid(s) themselves.
2. Audicus Omni - Best Affordable Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
The Omni is Audicus's latest and most comprehensive hearing aid. Equipped with Bluetooth streaming compatibility for both Apple and Android devices, an optional rechargeable battery, automatic adjustments to your environment, and feedback reduction, the Omni is designed to cater to a wide range of hearing needs.
Key Features of Audicus Omni
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Enables streaming from Apple and Android devices.
- Remote Adjustments: An Audicus hearing specialist can adjust without returning the product.
- Optional Rechargeable Battery: Offers additional convenience but comes at an extra cost.
- Auto Adjustments: The hearing aid automatically adapts to your environment.
- Feedback Reduction: Reduces the annoyance of squealing or feedback.
Pros
- Fully customizable, prescription hearing aid suitable for mild-severe hearing loss.
- Remote care brand that programs and delivers your hearing aids through Telehealth.
- Includes lifetime support with purchasing hearing aids.
- Comes in a small and comfortable receiver-in-canal style that is easy to wear all-day.
- Connects to multiple devices simultaneously.
Cons
- Not suitable for users with profound hearing loss.
- Rechargeable batteries come at an additional cost.
- Requires users to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear.
A Closer Look at Audicus Omni's Technology
The Audicus Omni is backed by robust technology that effectively handles background noise and sudden sounds. It also offers powerful background noise reduction, intelligent sound algorithms, and 16 programming channels.
Moreover, the Audicus Omni is manufactured by Sonova, a trusted leader in the hearing aid industry, ensuring reliable quality and cutting-edge tech.
Summary
The Audicus Omni offers a premium hearing aid experience that caters to a wide array of hearing needs. Its advanced features, affordability, and adaptability make it a promising choice for those seeking a comprehensive solution to their hearing challenges. Whether you're a first-time user or looking to upgrade, the Audicus Omni is worth considering.
While the Omni may not be suitable for users with profound hearing loss or those who prefer not to insert the receiver into their ear, it remains a commendable choice as a cheap hearing aid for severe hearing loss. With the option to program the device remotely and the convenience of a rechargeable battery, the Omni provides a seamless and hassle-free hearing aid experience.
3. Oticon Real - Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
Oticon Real, the successor to Oticon More, brings several notable advancements to improve speech clarity, suppress wind noise, and enhance user comfort. It is designed to deliver a clean, natural sound, facilitating effortless conversations even in complex listening situations.
Availability and Design
The Oticon Real was released in the US on February 23rd, 2023, and is initially available in four different models:
- miniRITE R - their rechargeable receiver-in-canal hearing aid
- miniRITE T - uses a disposable size 312 battery
- miniBTE R - rechargeable and behind-the-ear
- miniBTE T - uses a size 312 battery
Pros
- Enhanced speech clarity
- Effective wind and handling noise reduction
- Comfortable and stylish design
- Hearing aids for severe hearing loss
- Long battery life
- Flexible charging options
- Seamless iPhone and Android connectivity
Cons
- Only available in behind-the-ear hearing aid styles
- It may not connect to all Bluetooth devices
Why We Chose It:
Some of the things that we like the most about Oticon hearing aids include the following:
Clear and Natural Sound
One of the highlights of the Oticon Real is its impressive speech clarity. Utilizing a new speech processing algorithm, the device enhances speech clarity and reduces background noise, making it easier for users to understand conversations in noisy environments.
Sudden Sound Stabilizer
Sudden, loud sounds can be intrusive and even painful for hearing aid users. Oticon Real's Sudden Sound Stabilizer feature quickly reduces the sound of loud noises, improving the overall listening experience.
Wind Noise Canceller
The Oticon Real also introduces a new wind and handling noise reduction feature, designed to provide up to 23dB greater speech understanding in windy conditions without causing discomfort.
Summary
In conclusion, the Oticon Real is a valuable addition to hearing aids for severe hearing loss. It offers a range of advanced features designed to enhance user experience and improve hearing capabilities, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to improve their hearing health.
4. Phonak Naida Paradise - Easiest to Use Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
The Phonak Naida Paradise is the latest addition to Phonak hearing aids. It supersedes the Phonak Naida Marvel, offering improved features and specifications. Available in two hearing aid models:
- Phonak Naida P-PR
- Phonak Naida P-UP
Pros
- Powerful sound quality
- Multiple Bluetooth connections
- Direct connectivity to iOS and Android devices
- Hands-free calls
- Rechargeable battery
- Customizable settings
- Comes in various colors
- Compatible with Roger Direct Technology
Cons
- It can be expensive for some people
- The rechargeable model may not be suitable for everyone
Why We Chose It
The Phonak Naida Paradise stands out for its powerful sound quality, advanced features, and compact design. It's an excellent choice for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss looking for a device that offers more than sound amplification.
Technology Behind Phonak Naida Paradise
The Naida Paradise is available in four technology levels: P30, P50, P70, and P90, with P90 being the top-of-the-line model. Leading-edge technologies like the new PRISM (Processing Real-time Intelligent Sound Management) and AutoSense 4.0 software make this device a powerful hearing companion.
PRISM Processing
The PRISM processing chip is the brain behind Naida Paradise's impressive sound management. It continuously scans the listening environment, fine-tuning the audio with up to 200 adjustments for an optimized listening experience.
AutoSense 4.0 Software
This software enhances one-on-one conversations by providing more gain on soft input speech signals—a feature known as the Speech Enhancer. It also employs a directional beamformer to amplify speech in a loud environment.
Motion Sensor Hearing
Another fantastic feature of the Naida Paradise is the motion sensor hearing. It detects when the user is stationary or in motion and automatically adjusts the microphones and the dynamic noise reduction system to maximize speech intelligibility.
Rechargeable Battery and Bluetooth Connectivity
The rechargeable hearing aids only take two hours to charge for a full day's use. Coupled with improved Bluetooth protocol, the hearing aids can be paired with up to eight Bluetooth devices and be connected to two simultaneously.
Summary
The Phonak Naida Paradise is a revolutionary hearing aid that offers powerful sound, industry-leading connectivity, and advanced features like Speech Enhancer and Motion Sensor Hearing. It's compact design and various color options make it stylish for those looking to enhance their hearing experience.
Remember, when it comes to hearing aids for severe hearing loss, the best one for you is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. Therefore, it's essential to consult with a hearing care professional before deciding.
5. Widex Moment BTE 13 D - Best Tinnitus Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
The Widex Moment BTE 13 D is a rechargeable behind-the-ear hearing aid that targets individuals with varying degrees of hearing loss, ranging from minimal to severe to profound. The device boasts a unique blend of smart technologies, design aesthetics, and personalized solutions, seeking to deliver an improved auditory experience to its users.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Advanced technology levels
- Artificial intelligence integration
- Personalized fittings
- CROS options
- Multiple connectivity options
Cons
- Requires a separate accessory for hands-free calling
- Limited battery life of the charging case
- Requires a separate device for remote care
Why We Chose It
We chose the Widex Moment BTE 13 D for its innovative features, advanced technology, and high user satisfaction. Its unique sound quality, connectivity, and comfort blend make it a standout choice in the hearing aid market.
Sound Quality Enhancement
The standout feature of the Widex Moment BTE 13 D is its impressive Puresound technology. This feature minimizes the artificial sounds often noticed in open fittings due to sound delays, enhancing the overall sound quality for a more authentic listening experience.
Artificial Intelligence Integration
Widex has incorporated artificial intelligence into their Moment BTE 13 D model. This makes it possible for the hearing aids to adapt to the user's environment and adjust the settings for optimal performance. The device can also "learn" the user's unique preferences to provide a more tailored and comfortable hearing experience.
Personalized Fittings
The TruAcoustics algorithm in the Moment BTE 13 D considers the natural acoustics of an individual's ear canal, integrating it into the hearing aid settings. This contributes to a more comfortable and custom-tailored listening experience.
Widex CROS Options
For individuals with single-sided deafness or unaidable hearing loss in one ear, Widex offers CROS options in the Moment BTE 13 D. This allows the sound from the impaired side to transmit to the better-hearing ear.
Summary
The Widex Moment BTE 13 D emerges as a comprehensive solution for individuals seeking to enhance their auditory experience. Its blend of innovative features, personalized solutions, and user-friendly design make it one of the best hearing aids for severe hearing loss.?
Whether you're a first-time user or an experienced hearing aid wearer, this device promises to redefine your auditory journey, helping you embrace the joy of hearing again.
6. Starkey Genesis AI - Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss With Advanced Technology
Genesis AI is the latest flagship hearing aid from Starkey, one of the leading manufacturers in the industry. Known for its quality products and commitment to innovation, Starkey has been at the forefront of hearing aid technology. Genesis AI is a testament to its dedication to providing top-tier devices for users.
The Genesis AI hearing aids are designed to maximize the user's hearing abilities, offering a rich set of features that make them stand out from other hearing aids on the market. They are compatible with iOS and Android devices and can be paired with an extensive library of assistive wireless technologies.
Pros
- Comfortable Design: The redesigned Genesis AI receiver-in-canal devices are incredibly comfortable on the ear, thanks to their lightweight construction and FlexForm? receiver cables.
- Advanced Technology: The Genesis AI incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) and deep neural networks (DNN) to deliver superior sound quality and speech-in-noise processing.
- Rich Feature Set: With features like health and fitness monitoring, language translation, and transcription, the Genesis AI offers one of the most comprehensive sets of features available.
- Long Battery Life: The standard RIC RT device provides an impressive battery life of up to 51 hours per charge.
- Wireless Connectivity: The Genesis AI offers iOS and Android-compatible audio streaming, hands-free calling for iOS users, and wireless control through the My Starkey app.
- Versatile Form Factors: The Genesis AI is available in various form factors, including receiver-in-canal (RIC) and custom models, catering to different user preferences.
- Compatibility with Wireless Accessories: The new aids can be paired with Starkey's full wireless access library, providing users with additional functionality and convenience.
Cons
- Professional Fitting Required: The Genesis AI is a prescription-fit hearing aid that must be fitted by a hearing care professional, requiring a visit to a clinic for testing and fitting.
- Limited Model Options: Currently, the Genesis AI is not offered in a behind-the-ear (BTE) model, limiting options for users who prefer this style.
- Hands-Free Calling Limitation: Hands-free calling is currently only available for iOS users, with no support for Android smartphones.
- Wireless Capabilities of the CIC Model: The tiny Completely-in-Canal (CIC) model of the Genesis AI does not have the same wireless capabilities as its predecessor, the Evolv AI CIC.
- Price Consideration: Starkey-made hearing aids are unavailable at lower prices in stores like Costco or Walmart, making them a more expensive option than over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.
Why We Chose It?
The Starkey Genesis AI is ideal for individuals who value top-of-the-line traditional hearing aids and want to maximize their hearing capabilities. Its advanced technology, compatibility with both iOS and Android devices, and extensive range of wireless accessories make it a versatile and highly advanced option.?
However, due to its prescription-fit nature and higher cost than OTC hearing aids, it is best suited for those with a flexible budget and a willingness to seek professional fitting and ongoing care.
Comfort and Performance
Genesis AI hearing aids are designed with user comfort in mind. They have a redesigned Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) design that is light and comfortable on the ear. With their FlexForm? receiver cables, these devices offer maximum comfort without compromising on audio quality.
Powerful Chip Platform
Starkey's new chip platform is one of the most powerful, featuring artificial intelligence (AI) and deep neural networks (DNN) for superior sound quality and efficient speech-in-noise processing.
Rich Feature Set
Genesis AI hearing aids offer a wealth of features, including health and fitness monitoring, language translation, transcription, and more, providing users with a comprehensive and versatile hearing solution.
Industry-Leading Battery Life
One of the unique selling points of Genesis AI is its industry-leading rechargeable battery life. The standard RIC RT device offers up to 51 hours of battery life per charge, ensuring users enjoy uninterrupted use for extended periods.
Summary
Starkey's Genesis AI represents a major milestone in hearing aid technology. From its innovative hardware architecture that mimics the brain's computational system to its powerful Neuro Processor and extensive range of features, the Genesis AI offers unparalleled sound quality and user experience.?
While it may not be the most affordable option and has certain limitations, its comfort, performance, and advanced technology make it a top choice for those seeking rechargeable hearing aids for severe hearing loss with fitness tracking and fall detection capabilities.
Degrees of Hearing Loss
Approximately 15 percent of American adults, or 37.5 million, report hearing loss. [1]Hearing loss is often categorized based on how it affects an individual's ability to perceive sound. This is measured in decibels (dB), with the degree of hearing loss indicating how loud sounds need to be for the person to hear them. [2]?
This is often called "the degree of hearing loss" and is described using dB HL. The following table provides a general classification of hearing loss based on this measure:
Table 1: Common Classification of Hearing Loss (Source: Clark, J. G. (1981). Uses and abuses of hearing loss classification. Asha, 23, 493-500) [3]
Mild Hearing Loss
For people with mild hearing loss, the quietest sounds they can hear with their better ears are between 25 and 34 dB. These individuals may have difficulties following conversations, especially in noisy environments. [4]
Moderate Hearing Loss
Individuals with moderate hearing loss can hear the quietest sounds at 35 and 49 dB with a better ear. They may struggle to understand conversations and will often benefit from using hearing aids.
Moderately Severe Hearing Loss
For those with moderately severe hearing loss, the quietest sounds they can hear are between 50 and 64 dB. These individuals often have difficulties hearing in most situations when not using the best hearing aids.
Severe Hearing Loss
Severe hearing loss refers to individuals who can only hear the quietest sounds between 65 and 79 dB. These individuals usually require powerful hearing aids and often rely on lip-reading, even while using hearing aids. [4]
Profound Hearing Loss
Individuals with profound hearing loss can hear the quietest sounds at 80 dB or more. They usually require very strong hearing aids or implants, and many also rely on lip-reading and/or sign language. [5]
Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is not a monolithic condition; it manifests differently depending on the part of the ear that's affected. The ear and our hearing mechanism comprise several parts:
- The outer ear;
- The middle ear;
- The inner ear;
- The ear (auditory) nerve;
- The hearing (auditory) system pathway in the brain;
Based on which part of the hearing system is affected, hearing loss can be classified into:
- Conductive Loss: This describes hearing loss caused by something that prevents sounds from passing through the outer or middle ear.
- Sensorineural Loss: This type of hearing loss occurs when there is an issue with the functioning of the inner ear or hearing nerve.
- Mixed Hearing Loss: As the name suggests, this type of hearing loss combines conductive and sensorineural hearing loss elements.
- Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder: This is a form of hearing loss that occurs when sound enters the ear normally. However, due to damage to the inner ear or the hearing nerve, the sound isn't processed in a way the brain can understand. [6]
Classifying Hearing Loss Based on Timing and Side Affected
Hearing loss can also be classified based on when it occurred and the side it affects.
- Pre-lingual refers to hearing loss before the individual learns to talk.
- Post-lingual: This refers to hearing loss after someone learns to speak.
Regarding the side affected, hearing loss can be:
- Unilateral: This is when the hearing loss is in one ear.
- Bilateral: This is when the hearing loss is in both ears.
Hearing Aids for Moderately Severe Hearing Loss
Moderately severe hearing loss is a significant degree of hearing impairment that falls between moderate and severe hearing loss on the audiogram. It is typically categorized by the severity of hearing loss in decibels (dB) and its impact on an individual's hearing and communication ability.
Some of the best hearing aids for moderate to severe hearing loss include:
Audien is a well-established brand known for its affordable and high-quality hearing aids. Designed for people with varying degrees of hearing loss, Audien hearing aids have a specific range dedicated to moderately severe hearing loss.?
Their hearing aids utilize advanced digital signal processing technology to enhance speech comprehension while reducing background noise interference. Audien's devices are discreet and comfortable and offer multiple customizable settings to suit individual preferences.?
MDHearing is another prominent player in the hearing aid market, focusing on delivering affordable and accessible solutions to those with hearing loss. Their hearing aids for moderately severe hearing loss are designed to provide clear and natural sound quality, helping users hear speech and other important sounds with clarity.?
MDHearing's devices come with easy-to-use controls and various listening programs, making them suitable for various environments. Additionally, MDHearing offers telehealth support and a reliable customer service system, enabling users to receive assistance and guidance from hearing experts when needed.
Eargo stands out in the hearing aid market for its innovative and virtually invisible hearing aids. The company's unique designs prioritize comfort and aesthetics without compromising on sound quality.?
Eargo's hearing aids for moderately severe hearing loss utilize proprietary Flexi Fibers, which comfortably hold the devices in the ear canal while allowing natural sounds to pass through. This technology helps reduce occlusion, and the feeling of the wearer's voice is amplified, making the hearing experience more natural.
Hearing Aids for Profound Hearing Loss
For individuals with profound hearing loss, choosing a hearing aid with high amplification and features designed to improve speech understanding is crucial. Here are some of the best hearing aids for extreme hearing loss:
- Cochlear Nucleus 7 Sound Processor: This cochlear implant offers a high degree of amplification and features designed to improve speech understanding. It's also compatible with iPhone and Android devices, making it easy to control and customize the sound processor's settings.
- Advanced Bionics HiRes Ultra 3D Cochlear Implant: This cochlear implant offers a high amplification and features designed to improve speech understanding. It's also MRI-safe, making it a good option for individuals who need regular MRI scans.
- Oticon Xceed: Oticon Xceed power hearing aid is the world's most powerful hearing aid for profound hearing loss.?
Oticon Xceed is one of the strongest hearing aids that improve voice clarity by 10%, reduces the listening effort that power users deal with in most scenarios every day by 10%, and boosts short-term memory by 15% thanks to Oticon's BrainHearingTM technologies, OpenSound NavigatorTM, and OpenSound OptimizerTM.
What is Severe Hearing Loss?
Severe hearing loss is classified as a significant impairment in a person's ability to hear sounds. It is characterized by the inability to hear speech at a normal level and only perceiving loud sounds to some extent. On average, individuals with severe hearing loss can only detect 65 to 79 decibels or louder sounds.
Causes of Severe Hearing Loss
Various factors can contribute to the development of severe hearing loss. Understanding these causes is crucial in identifying potential risk factors and seeking appropriate treatment. Some common causes include:
- Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as working in noisy environments or attending loud concerts, can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear and lead to severe hearing loss.
- Age-related Hearing Loss: As we age, our hearing naturally deteriorates. Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, can progress to severe levels and significantly impact communication abilities.
- Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic mutations can play a role in developing severe hearing loss. These genetic abnormalities can affect the ear structures or impair the auditory nerve's functioning.
- Illnesses and Infections: Certain illnesses and infections, such as meningitis, mumps, and otosclerosis, can damage the ear structures and cause severe hearing loss.
- Ototoxic Medications: Some medications, including certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can harm the auditory system, leading to severe hearing loss. [7]
Symptoms of Severe Hearing Loss
Recognizing the symptoms of severe hearing loss is essential for early detection and intervention. Some common signs and symptoms include:
- Difficulty Understanding Speech: Individuals with severe hearing loss often struggle to comprehend speech, especially in noisy environments or when multiple people speak.
- Frequent Miscommunication: Misunderstanding conversations, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, or responding inappropriately to questions or comments are common signs of severe hearing loss.
- Increased Volume: People with severe hearing loss may turn up the volume on electronic devices or the television to an excessively high level.
- Social Withdrawal: The challenges associated with severe hearing loss can lead to social isolation and withdrawal from social activities due to communication difficulties. [8]
- Tinnitus: Many individuals with severe hearing loss experience tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, which can be bothersome and disruptive. Some of the best hearing aids for tinnitus include Jabra Enhance and Phonak.?
Types of Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
There are various types of hearing aids for severe hearing loss. The best hearing aids for severe hearing loss will depend on numerous factors, including the individual's level of hearing loss, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are one of the most common types of hearing aids. They consist of a case that fits behind the ear and a tube that routes the sound into the ear canal. BTE hearing aids are highly versatile and can be used for various hearing loss levels, including severe hearing loss.
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-made to fit directly in the ear canal. They are typically less visible than BTE hearing aids and can be a good option for individuals with severe hearing loss who prefer a more discreet device.
Cochlear implants are another option for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. These surgically implanted devices bypass the damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, providing a different sound sensation than traditional hearing aids
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss?
Several important factors must be considered when choosing the best hearing aids for severe hearing loss. One of the first things to consider is the type of hearing loss you have. Different types of hearing loss may require different types of hearing aids.?
For instance, sensorineural hearing loss often benefits from digital hearing aids that can be programmed to amplify certain frequencies more than others.
The severity of your hearing loss is another critical factor to consider. Individuals with severe hearing loss usually benefit from hearing aids with more power and features to help understand speech in noisy environments.
Your lifestyle needs and preferences are also important to consider. If you lead an active lifestyle, you may benefit from hearing aids with features such as water resistance, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries. If you prefer a more discreet device, you may want to consider in-the-ear hearing aids or invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids.
When choosing a hearing aid, it's also crucial to consider the cost. Hearing aids for severe hearing loss can be expensive, and not all models are covered by insurance. However, there are affordable hearing aids for severe hearing loss available that offer excellent sound quality and useful features.
Where to Buy the Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss?
The best hearing aids for severe hearing loss can be purchased from various sources. Audiologists and hearing aid dispensers are often the best place to start, as they can provide a comprehensive hearing evaluation and recommend hearing aids based on your specific hearing loss and lifestyle needs.
Online retailers also offer a wide range of hearing aids for severe hearing loss, often at lower prices than traditional brick-and-mortar stores. However, it's important to ensure that the retailer offers a fitting service, as hearing aids for severe loss need to be properly fitted and programmed to provide the best possible benefit.
Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss: FAQ
How Do I Know if I Need Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss?
If you struggle to hear conversations, especially in noisy environments, or frequently ask people to repeat themselves, you may benefit from a hearing aid. A hearing test can determine the degree of your hearing loss and whether a hearing aid could help.
How Long Do Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss Last?
On average, hearing aids last about five to seven years. However, the lifespan of a hearing aid can vary based on the type of hearing aid, how well it's maintained, and how often it's used.
Can I Wear a Hearing Aid for Severe Hearing Loss While Sleeping?
Wearing a hearing aid while sleeping is generally not recommended. Most hearing aids are not designed to be worn 24/7, and wearing a hearing aid while sleeping can lead to ear irritation and may shorten the hearing aid's lifespan.
What Is the Best Hearing Aid for Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Since sensorineural hearing loss is by far the most prevalent type of hearing loss, there aren't any "best" hearing aids for it. The majority of hearing aids target this type of hearing loss.
What Are the Best Hearing Aids for Nerve Damage?
Cochlear implants are considered as hearing aids for the deaf and are typically recommended for people with profound sensorineural hearing loss or for those who don't benefit from a traditional hearing aid. A bone-anchored auditory implant is a surgically implanted device that sends sound as a vibration directly to your best-functioning inner ear.
Conclusion: What Are the Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss?
Regarding the best hearing aids for severe hearing loss, various options exist, from powerful BTE models to cochlear implants. The best hearing aid for you will depend on your specific hearing loss, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences.
Some of the best hearing aids for severe hearing loss include Jabra Enhance Pro 10, Audicus Omni, and Oticon Real.
Remember, it's essential to consult with a hearing healthcare professional before purchasing a hearing aid. They can provide a comprehensive hearing evaluation and recommend the best hearing aids based on your hearing loss and lifestyle needs.
References:
[1] - Accessible and affordable hearing Health Care Activities (no date) National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Available at: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/research/improve-hearing-health-care (Accessed: 21 July 2023).
[2] - InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Hearing loss and deafness: Normal hearing and impaired hearing. 2008 May 15 [Updated 2017 Nov 30]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK390300/
[3] - Common Classification of Hearing Loss (Source: Clark, J. G. (1981). Uses and abuses of hearing loss classification. Asha, 23, 493-500)
[4] - Shukla A, Harper M, Pedersen E, Goman A, Suen JJ, Price C, Applebaum J, Hoyer M, Lin FR, Reed NS. Hearing Loss, Loneliness, and Social Isolation: A Systematic Review. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2020 May;162(5):622-633. doi: 10.1177/0194599820910377. Epub 2020 Mar 10. PMID: 32151193; PMCID: PMC8292986.
[5] - Definition of hearing loss - mild, moderate & severe hearing loss (no date) hear. Available at: https://www.hear-it.org/Defining-hearing-loss (Accessed: 21 July 2023).
[6] - Types of hearing loss (2022) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hearingloss/types.html (Accessed: 21 July 2023).
[7] - Deafness and hearing loss World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/deafness-and-hearing-loss (Accessed: 21 July 2023).
[8] - National Research Council (US) Committee on Disability Determination for Individuals with Hearing Impairments; Dobie RA, Van Hemel S, editors. Hearing Loss: Determining Eligibility for Social Security Benefits. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004. 6, Impact of Hearing Loss on Daily Life and the Workplace. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK207836/
Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
Tags
-
Previous Story
Grooming The Fashionable: Mohit Khandelwal's Journey From Passion To Influence -
Next Story
Real Money Online Casino NZ: Best Sites In New Zealand
